"I'll give you shelter from the storm" Bob Dylan sings in his so-named song. This could also be the motto for the German Red Cross to build accommodations - shelters - for the people in areas affected or threatened by disasters. Because tsunamis, typhoons or earthquakes often cause massive destruction.
If large areas are destroyed, it is clear that the design of the buildings is not suitable. This is why a risk analysis should review building design and adapt the buildings if necessary.
Besides building shelters, we train the local people in construction techniques for earthquake and storm-safe houses. By that, we enable them to select the right materials and use the right techniques to build new homes in the future.
One thing must not be forgotten: When building new homes for poor families, security is not the only thing that counts. It is also about dignity, privacy and strengthening against the effects of the climate change. This is why the German Red Cross is committed to support the construction of shelters in many regions around the world.